Alberta is a land of great beauty, with a rich cultural heritage that extends back thousands of years. For those interested in learning about the Indigenous peoples who have lived here for millennia, there are many places guests can visit that offer insights into their customs, traditions, and ways of life. Here are just five of the many places in Alberta that offer visitors the chance to learn from Indigenous peoples and gain a deeper appreciation of the rich storied history and culture.
1. Warrior Women, located on the traditional territories of the Danezaa (Beaver), Nêhiyawak (Cree), Anishinaabe (Ojibway), Secwépemc (Shuswap), Stoney Nakoda, and Métis Nation.jpg)
Warrior Women is a cultural experience that offers immersive experiences led by Indigenous guides in Jasper. Visitors can experience traditional drumming, medicine walks, and storytelling, as well as learn about the history and traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the area, including the Stoney Nakoda, who have lived there for thousands of years.
2. Metis Crossing, located on the traditional territories of the Metis Nation.jpg)
Metis Crossing is a cultural gathering place that offers visitors a chance to learn about the Metis people of Alberta. The site includes a museum, a traditional village, and a river crossing that was used by fur traders and Indigenous peoples for centuries. Visitors can participate in workshops on traditional crafts, storytelling, and dancing, and learn about the rich history and culture of the Metis Nation.
3. Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park, located on the traditional territories of the Nitawahsin (Blackfoot Confederacy).jpg)
Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features unique rock formations and carvings created by Indigenous peoples over 2,000 years ago. Visitors can participate in guided tours led by Indigenous interpreters and learn about the history and culture of the area's Blackfoot people, who have lived on this land for thousands of years.
4. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, located on the traditional territories of the Nitawahsin (Blackfoot Confederacy).jpg)
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is another UNESCO World Heritage site that is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Alberta's Indigenous peoples. The site includes a museum and interpretive center that features exhibits on the area's Indigenous history, as well as guided tours led by knowledgeable Indigenous guides who share the rich traditions and stories of the Blackfoot Confederacy.
5. Heritage Park, located on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot, Tsuut’ina, Îyârhe Nakoda, and Metis Nation.jpg)
At Heritage Park, guests can participate in a range of activities that showcase the rich diversity of Indigenous cultures in the region, including traditional teepees and demonstrations of hunting and fishing techniques. With guided tours led by knowledgeable Indigenous guides, visitors can learn about the histories and traditions of the Tsuut'ina people, who have called this area home for thousands of years.
By visiting these sites and engaging with Indigenous guides and communities, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation of the rich and enduring legacy of Alberta's Indigenous peoples.